Research Article  |   March 2019
Occupational Therapists’ Perceptions of Online Competence Assessment and Evidence-Based Resources
Christine T. Myers
Author Affiliations
  • Christine T. Myers, PhD, OTR/L, is Clinical Associate Professor and Program Director, Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville; ctmyers@phhp.ufl.edu
Article Information
Evidence-Based Practice / Research Articles
Research Article   |   March 2019
Occupational Therapists’ Perceptions of Online Competence Assessment and Evidence-Based Resources
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, March 2019, Vol. 73, 7302205090p1-7302205090p8. doi:10.5014/ajot.2019.029322
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, March 2019, Vol. 73, 7302205090p1-7302205090p8. doi:10.5014/ajot.2019.029322
Abstract

OBJECTIVE. This study explored U.S. occupational therapists’ perceptions of online competence assessment and associated evidence-based resources.

METHOD. The study used a cross-sectional design with a survey. Respondents were occupational therapists certifying or recertifying with the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy in March 2016.

RESULTS. The response rate was 88.6%, with 58.5% indicating they had used the online competence assessment platform. A majority agreed that the platform’s tools helped them identify clinical knowledge (n = 211; 79.9%) and skill needs (n = 160; 60.8%). Of those who obtained copies of the evidence-based resources (n = 98; 45.6%), 72.5% (n = 71) read at least one. Chi-square analysis demonstrated negative relationships between years as an occupational therapist and clinical skills assessment and between highest degree and use of evidence-based practices.

CONCLUSION. Online competence assessment assisted participants in identifying competence needs and evidence-based resources for improving clinical knowledge and skills.